New heritage signboards which help tell the story of Harlow before and after it became a new town have been installed across the town.
A total of 15 boards have been put in as part of the council’s priority to restore pride in the town by replacing old signage around the town with new.
Among the stories the signboards tell are:
- The Harlow Temple site in River Way which dates to the days of the Roman Empire
- The Stow, the new town’s first neighbourhood centre, which opened in 1952
- The Lawn, post-WW2 Britain’s first tower block
- Potter Street and its historical past in pottery production dating back to Roman and medieval times
- Old Harlow and its history going back to the 12th century
The project has been funded by the council’s estate renewal fund programme.
Councillor Sue Livings, Harlow Council’s member champion for arts, culture and heritage, said:
“I am delighted that these new Discover Harlow boards are now in place around the town. The boards will help to share some of the fascinating stories about different places around Harlow and their history. That history will continue to be part of the Harlow of today and the future. Not only will the new signboards tell the town’s story to existing residents but also to future generations helping them to discover Harlow and connect to our town’s unique past.
“The new signs really stand out and make a difference as many of the previous signboards needed updating and refreshing.”
Residents can discover more about Harlow by visiting Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens which is free to visit and is open every Tuesday. Thursday and Saturday from 9.30am to 3.30pm (last entry at 3pm).
For more information visit the Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens website.